BWA says providing refuge places is "essential support to prevent serious harm" and some women stay in these places for up to 12 months while they try to get their lives back on track.

Liz Terry, chief executive of BWA, insists the charity wants to keep all of the refuge places open so it can meet rising demand, but admits the cuts may result in closures.

Domestic violence in Reading

Thames Valley Police

However, she believes an increase in domestic abuse is a "national problem" and support services should be funded by central Government, not struggling councils which are being hit by huge funding cuts.

BWA is now urging people to comment on Reading Borough Council's plans to cut funding for refuge places and help them meet the costs of providing these places.

Increase in calls to BWA helpline

58%

2016

The charity says: "This is a national problem and although the Government announced new funding for specialist accommodation last November, the application guidance states the funding is for additional services and suggests it won’t fund services being cut by local government.

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"We welcome the community contributing to the debate on this critical issue via the consultation being run by Reading Borough Council and the role that Reading should play in the national solution to a growing problem.

"We will be increasing our fundraising activities this year to try to protect the services we provide as much as possible – if you would like make a donation please go to our local giving page."